Nelly and Ashanti pulled out all the stops to celebrate their son Kareem “KK” Haynes’ first birthday, and the Kunda and Friends-themed bash was pure magic.
The couple, beaming with pride, hosted the lavish event in Long Island, New York, just one day after KK officially turned one. And let’s just say: Baby boy arrived in style.
On July 19, Nelly and Ashanti celebrated their son Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, affectionately known as KK, with a first birthday party that could easily double as a kiddie Met Gala. It was pure joy, complete with family, famous friends, and a whole lot of love.
But let’s start with the entrance. KK rolled up to his party in a miniature white Lamborghini, rocking sunglasses and a little gold crown like he owned the block. Giggling and waving at guests, the birthday boy had everyone swooning before the festivities even got started. Meanwhile, proud parents Nelly and Ashanti were all smiles, beaming with the kind of love that only comes from watching your baby turn one.
The theme was Kunda and Friends, a vibrant African animated series that was brought to life at the party with a race track, dual slide, bounce house, and a whole stage setup featuring life-size characters. Co-creator Louisa Kiwana Olafuyi even flew in all the way from Uganda to personally surprise the family with a custom animated short starring KK, Ashanti, and Nelly themselves.
The couple’s famous circle showed up in full support. LL Cool J and his wife Simone Smith were spotted, along with singer Lloyd and a host of close friends and family, all wearing matching shirts printed with how they’re connected to KK. Aunties, uncles, cousins, you name it.
And the kids were spoiled in the best way. Hot Wheels provided custom gift bags packed with toys, including an Ultimate Garage Playset. Evelyn’s Kitchen and Cuts & Slices kept the grown folks fed with top-tier eats, while the little ones enjoyed organic juices and smoothies. The sweet tooth crowd was not forgotten; desserts came courtesy of Toni’s Minis and Hanoli Cakes NY.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Nelly and Ashanti shared their gratitude and disbelief over how quickly the year flew by. “We cannot believe KK is 1,” they said. “This year has flown by, and we have enjoyed every minute of seeing his milestones, funny moments, and growth. He brings us and our family so much joy.”
And Ashanti, who rekindled her romance with Nelly in 2023 after more than a decade apart, is clearly living in her soft era.
